Revenue officials yet to reach Ranni; Traders fear repeat of 2018 negligence

PATHANAMTHITTA: Even after 15 days of the flood disaster, revenue officials haven't yet reached Ranni to take stock of the losses. This is considered a failure on the government's part despite announcing a helping hand to the business sector in Ranni. The Disaster Management Department issued an order on the 6th to allocate Rs 10,000 from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund as emergency assistance, but officials say no instructions have been received yet. The government had promised assistance in 2018 as well, but nothing happened.

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who arrived in Ranni during the floods, had received a petition from the representatives of traders in Ranni. He also assured that tax and loan concessions would be considered. At the same time, traders raised their difference to the current flood warning system. Traders are not getting warnings regarding the opening of dams, which often comes through documents. If the Moozhiyar dam is opened, water reaches Ranni after four hours. With timely warning, the traders will be able to shift their valuables and goods.

The suggestion given by the traders in 2018 to prevent damage was not considered. The suggestions were as follows.

1. The flood warning system should be revised by including the Disaster Management Authority, traders, temples, mosques, and sound system owners. Announcements should be made even at night.

2. The mobile phones of three traders who are active 24 hours a day should receive warnings.

3. A scientific study should be conducted on the causes of the flood.

4. A way to deal with the flood should be devised with the involvement of technical experts.

5. Encroachments on rivers and streams should be removed

6. Dredging should be done in rivers that have accumulated a massive amount of sand.